In a ceremony held on Thursday, the three crew members of China's Shenzhou-18 mission—Ye Guangfu, Li Cong, and Li Guangsu—were awarded prestigious medals in recognition of their outstanding contributions to China's space endeavors.
Ye Guangfu, the mission commander and a veteran astronaut, received a second-class aerospace achievement medal. His fellow astronauts, Li Cong and Li Guangsu, were honored with third-class aerospace achievement medals and the esteemed title of \"Heroic Astronaut.\" Ye had previously been awarded the \"Heroic Astronaut\" title in 2022.
The awards were conferred by the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the State Council, and the Central Military Commission, highlighting the national significance of the Shenzhou-18 mission.
Launched on April 25, 2024, the Shenzhou-18 spacecraft marked Ye Guangfu's second journey to China's space station. During this mission, he spent approximately six months in orbit, bringing his total time in space to over a year—a first for a Chinese astronaut.
For Li Cong and Li Guangsu, Shenzhou-18 was their inaugural space flight. Li Cong, the youngest member of the crew, successfully completed all assigned tasks, showcasing exemplary skill and dedication. Li Guangsu made history by installing the first space debris protection device on the space station during his maiden spacewalk.
Throughout their 192-day mission, the trio conducted two extravehicular activities and carried out nearly 100 space science experiments and in-orbit application payload tests. Their efforts have significantly advanced China's space exploration and scientific research capabilities.
The astronauts returned to Earth on November 4, 2024, setting a new national record for the longest manned mission in orbit. Their achievements not only demonstrate China's growing prowess in space exploration but also inspire future generations to reach for the stars.
